SE Inter-Counties CC, Reigate

Seven young athletes were selected to represent Essex schools at the South East Of England Inter Counties Cross Country Champs at sunny Reigate. The going underfoot was good and an undulating course greeted our young runners on this fine spring day, with many spectators present making a good atmosphere for this annual event.

First away was the Under 13 girls over a course of 3k. Rosie Poole's run can best be described as a "blinder". Rosie was always with the leading group of 10 runners out of 80 who started and, although slipping a couple of places on the run-in, she finished in a superb 13th place in 12 mins 04, and 2nd runner home for Essex. Jodi Ratcliff ran very well for 31st and 6th scorer for Essex in a time of 12 mins 35 secs.

Next away over the same course were the Under 13 boys with 80 starting. Canaan Solomon was hoping for a top 10 placing but he, too, was surprised to find himself in the lead on the first lap and always had control of the race from there, on coming home a worthy champion in 10 mins 26 secs.

We had three girls in the Under 14 girls race over 3.5 k. Alicia McArdell, running strongly throughout, placed a fine 10th in 13 mins 53 secs, and 2nd scorer for Essex. Isabel Levine, in her first race for Essex, had a good run, placing 23rd in 14 mins 35 for 7th scorer. And there was a welcome return for Sky Mulvey, also in her first Essex vest, placing a praiseworthy 29th in 14 mins 54 secs and 10th scorer for Essex.

In the last race of the day, the Under 14 boys, also over 3.5k, Daniel Rowden took a liking to the fast course and ran well for 18th place and 4th scorer for Essex in 13 mins 04.

To be honest this is an excellent set of results from some very determined young athletes and this bodes well for the club. They all left Reigate feeling pleased with their performances. (Report by John Stow)